Before launching – how to check and maintain the boat's systems
When spring arrives, it's time to prepare the boat for a new season. However, many overlook important checks – especially on the water system, electrical system, and battery bank. This can lead to leaks, drained batteries, or in the worst case, fire hazards.
Here is a clear overview of what you should check, how to avoid common mistakes, and what is important to consider – regardless of what equipment you have on board.
💧 Water System & Water Heater – How to Avoid Leaks and Downtime
🔎 What should you check?
• Ensure the water heater has not frozen or cracked
• Ensure the fittings and seals are intact
• That the zinc anode is not consumed
• That there are no visible signs of leakage
• That the reset button has not tripped (Isotemp)
• That there is no moisture damage (water leak) in or around the installation
🛠 Common problems & how to avoid them
|
Problem |
Cause |
Solution |
|
Leakage from the heater |
Frozen water |
Always empty the heater before winter storage |
|
The electric heater is not working |
Dry running or electrical fault |
Fill water before turning on power – check the reset button |
| Overheating | Broken protection | Check the overheat protection every spring |
|
Moisture damage (water leak) |
Worn seals or cracks |
Replace seals and carefully check the entire water installation |
🧽 Maintenance tips:
• Flush the tank with clean water
• Use original parts for safe installation
• Install safety valve if missing
⚡ Electrical safety & battery charging – for a safe season on the water
🔎 What should you check?
• That the charger is intact and suited to the battery type
• That the charger has the right capacity for the battery bank
• That the batteries maintain voltage and do not discharge quickly
• That no parasitic current exists that drains power at rest
• That you have fuses suited to the cable sizes
• That cables are intact, dry, and properly sized
• That you have a battery monitor to track status
🛠 Common problems & solutions
|
Problem |
Cause |
Solution |
|
The battery discharges quickly |
Wrong charging setting or parasitic current |
Check the charger's settings and look for hidden consumers |
|
Uncertain battery status |
No battery monitor |
Install battery monitor – e.g. SmartShunt with mobile display |
|
Electrical fault or operational stop |
Bad connections or wrong fuse |
Check all connections and use the correct size & quality |
|
Fuse blows |
Faulty fuse, too thin cable or short circuit |
Check cable area, switch to the correct fuse, and look for sources of error |
🔋 Tips for stable operation:
• Victron has chargers in various sizes and voltages – choose according to battery bank
• Check that all settings match your battery type (lead, AGM, lithium)
• SmartShunt is an alternative to traditional monitors – shows everything on your mobile
🔌 Cable routing & connections – how to avoid loose connections and miswirings
🔎 What should you check?
• That cables are intact, properly sized, and show no signs of corrosion
• That all fuses are correctly placed, undamaged, and suited to the load
• That fuse holders and terminal blocks are dry and tightened
• That any communication cables are functioning (regardless of brand)
• That connectors are sealed with heat shrink tubing or sleeves
🛠 Common errors & solutions
|
Problem |
Cause |
Solution |
|
Equipment does not start |
Loose or corroded cable lug |
Tighten all connections and replace damaged cable lugs |
|
Voltage drop in the system |
Thin or long cables |
Use the correct cable area and short runs where possible |
|
Fuse blows |
Incorrect fuse or short circuit |
Check load and dimension – switch to the correct type |
|
Communication problems |
Faulty or damaged data cable |
Check with a new cable – use original or equivalent quality |
✅ Checklist before launching – electrical & water
✔ Empty the hot water heater before winter – fill before starting
✔ Check the electric cartridge, overheat protection, and reset button
✔ Replace the zinc anode if it is half consumed
✔ Check all seals and gaskets to avoid leaks
✔ Check all fuses and cable sizes
✔ Measure voltage both at the battery and the consumer
✔ Use the correct charger, set according to battery type
✔ Check for parasitic currents
✔ Install a battery monitor – preferably with mobile access
✔ Protect all open connections with heat shrink tubing
✔ Test the control system and communication if you have integrated systems
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